Washington State Quarterback Tyler Hilinski Dead at Age 21 in Possible Suicide

Editor’s note: If you experience suicidal thoughts or have lost someone to suicide, the following post could be potentially triggering. You can contact the Crisis Text Lineby texting “START” to 741-741.

Tyler Hilinski, a quarterback for Washington State University, died on Tuesday at the age of 21. He was a sophomore at the university.

The Pullman Police Department is investigating Hilinski’s death with suicide as a probable cause. A suicide note was found after his death.

According to Bleacher Report, Hilinski played in 11 games over the span of two years and was in the running for the starting quarterback position after the current one graduates.

Hilinski’s fellow football players and others tweeted condolences and messages.

Head football coach Mike Leach also released a statement regarding Hilinski.

“We are deeply saddened to hear the news of Tyler’s passing. He was an incredible young man and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him was better for it. The entire WSU community mourns as thoughts and prayers go out to his family” – Coach Leach regarding Tyler Hilinski

Suicide is the second leading cause of death among college students, with 1,100 students dying by suicide each year, according to Active Minds. Though college athletes seem to have a lower incidence of suicide, football players have the highest risk out of other collegiate sports, according to a 2015 research study.

If this news is hard for you, know you are not alone — and there is help for people who are feeling suicidal. You can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or text “START” to 741741.